Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome Clinic

Special Clinic

Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome is a multi faceted diseases that includes the manifestations and the risks of – depression, anxiety, infertility, weight gain along with increased risk of cancer, to list a few. Facial hair, rise in male secondary characteristics are also associated with PCOS. PCOS can be defined as a condition caused when the ovaries or adrenal glands produce abnormal levees of male hormones. The patients may have enlarged ovaries with fluid filled cysts or sacs, giving the condition its name. If it is left untreated , PCOS can lead to serious health complications like – infertility, type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease and uterine cancer. The condition is also called Stein-Leventhal syndrome. PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women between ages 18 and 44. More than 10 million cases of PCOS are reported in India. According to WHO , 116 million women suffer from PCOS. There is no permanent cure for PCOS.

Causes of PCOS:

The exact cause of POS is not understood. Doctors believe that genes play a major role and so does insulin resistance and low grade inflammation.

Symptoms associated with PCOS:

Irregular missed periods

Heavy bleeding during periods

Elevated levels of male hormones

Abnormal weight gain and trouble losing weight

Decreased ovulation or complete lack of ovulation

Abnormal hair growth, in a masculine distribution, like on the chest, belly , face and around the nipples.

There is no specific test to definitively diagnose PCOS. The doctor will begin with a physical exam, followed by a pelvic exam , to check on the reproductive organs for abnormal growths. Other tests include:

Hormone level tests

Lipid profile tests

Thyroid function tests

Glucose tolerance test

Trans vaginal ultrasound examination

Pelvic laparoscopy

Since there is no cure for PCOS, the aim of the treatment is to address specific symptoms and concerns of the patient. It involves hormone therapy to make periods more regular, which also help in managing acne breakouts and abnormal hair growth. Medicines are also given to control diabetes, lose weight and stabilize ovulation.

Life style modifications needed to manage PCOS:

Keep your weight in check

Exercise regularly

Start a weight control program under the guidance of a doctor or nutrition expert